Libertarians often criticize the European Union because they view it as an overreaching bureaucratic institution that undermines individual liberty, national sovereignty, and free-market principles.
But beyond these regulations and bureaucracy, there are some aspects of the EU that promote individual and economic freedom. The Union promotes free trade, open borders, and the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people — core elements for the free market.
Watch our video to learn more about the benefits of free trade:
In 2020, one of the biggest member countries, the UK, formally left the Union with the decision of 52% of the population (a referendum held in 2016), aiming to have sovereignty, immigration control, and economic independence. Some warned that the results would be different from what the population expected. And Brexit did lead to significant political and economic changes, including new trade barriers, regulatory divergence, and challenges in Northern Ireland.
But the fact is: After Brexit, the GDP of the country was the same as in previous years (if we don’t count the period of COVID) and they didn’t get any benefits from “economic independence.”
Now, talks have renewed regarding a reciprocal partnership between these old friends.
The two sides have already reached preliminary agreements on defense cooperation and fishing rights, longstanding points of contention. In addition, both parties have committed to finalizing broader agreements on energy and climate policy. Central to these talks is a pledge to grant mutual exemptions from upcoming carbon taxes, signaling a shared effort to align environmental strategies.
Another major development in negotiations focuses on easing travel restrictions, particularly for young people. The proposed agreement would allow for short-term stays across borders for purposes such as work, study, volunteering, au-pair placements, and tourism, marking a potential revival of cross-cultural mobility post-Brexit.
Why does this matter?
These agreements reflect libertarian principles by promoting individual freedom and economic opportunity, with strong potential to boost regional development. They can create a more stable environment for investment, reduce trade friction and costs, and support sectors like labor, tourism, and education through easier travel. Renewed EU–UK cooperation would also restore trust, reduce uncertainty, and enhance citizens’ welfare.
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This piece solely expresses the opinion of the author and not necessarily the organization as a whole. Students For Liberty is committed to facilitating a broad dialogue for liberty, representing a variety of opinions.
